The Carers Association is launching the Carers of the Year Awards today, giving much-deserved recognition to the family carers and young carers who look after the people in their lives every single day.

Sam Norris was crowned carer of the year in 2012 and, as of today, will be the first ever ambassador of the association. He joined Chris and Ivan on Newstalk Breakfast this morning, along with his mother, Antoinette.

You can listen back to the interview through the player below or by searching for 'Highlights from Newstalk Breakfast' on your podcast app.

For more from Newstalk Breakfast, follow us on Twitter: @breakfastnt.